Opposites attract - at least when it comes to scents
Scientists have discovered that each person belongs to a certain scent type. The behaviour researcher Claus Wedekind proved back in 1995 that women prefer a scent in men which strongly differs from their own. Women intuitively follow one of the most important evolution principles: Genetic diversity. If the partner has as different an immune system as possible, their descendants are optimally protected against any disease pathogens. The nose therefore plays a very important role in choosing one's partner.
The gene of the «Major Histocompatibility Complex», the so-called MHC-Gene, carries the instructions for important components of the immune system: MHC proteins. They report the penetration of viruses and bacteria to the body's own defence cells. The MHC also shapes the specific body scent. It is emitted via the body fluids and on the skin it is converted to one's own original scent mixture. This scent profile is the decisive factor in deciding if someone is appealing to us (or more precisely our nose) - an important prerequisite for intimacy and trust to develop.
On the right track with Chemistry-Check
The saliva test developed by basisnote measures the specific MHC proteins which shape the scent type of an individual. The scent types can be compared with Chemistry-Check and scent matching. You can learn more about biological compatibility between you and your potential date and thereby greatly increase your chances of finding your dream partner.
Scientifically developed and supported
The company basisnote works closely with university partners in developing its test methods. Test and matching methods were developed and tested as part of a research project performed by the Commission for Technical Innovation (KTI) in conjunction with ETH Zurich and the University of Lausanne.
The Swiss station SF1 presented a story on the Einstein programme of September 24th, 2009 on the topic «The Scent of Genes: Selecting Partners by Scent». A scent experiment with a single woman clearly shows the decisive role the nose plays when selecting a partner. Original programme / Abbreviated version.
